Jane Elliott’s published works explore the dynamics of racism and prejudice, primarily through the lens of her renowned “Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes” exercise. This exercise, initially conducted with her third-grade students in the aftermath of Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, dramatically illustrates the impact of discrimination on both the individuals targeted and those who perpetuate it. Her writings provide detailed accounts of the exercise, its impact on participants over time, and its implications for understanding broader societal prejudice.
These works offer valuable insights into the mechanisms of prejudice and the psychological effects of discrimination. They serve as powerful tools for educators, diversity trainers, and anyone seeking to understand and combat bias. Elliott’s decades-long commitment to social justice education provides a historical context for the ongoing struggle against discrimination and offers practical strategies for fostering empathy and challenging ingrained prejudices.
